May wraps China in the confident, comfortable embrace of late spring. The landscape, now fully awake, is painted in deep, vibrant shades of green—from the manicured elegance of classical gardens to the untamed lushness of mountains and valleys. Days are long and bathed in warm, golden light, perfect for unhurried exploration. This is a season of abundant growth but unhurried pace, where the air is fresh and carries the scent of blooming flowers and rain-kissed earth. Whether wandering through serene countryside or along historic lanes, May offers a beautifully balanced harmony of nature’s energy and tranquil beauty.
Island Escapes, Alpine Blooms & Purple Canopies
Xiapu Mudflats, Fujian
Seasonal Highlight
Early summer brings the prime photography season, where tidal changes create “magic with light and shadow,” and scenes of seaweed harvesting add rich cultural texture.
Why Visit in May
Clear, sunny days offer perfect conditions to capture golden light on the mudflats at sunrise or sunset in spots like Beiqu, Xiaohao, and Dongbi, showcasing the renowned “China’s Most Beautiful Mudflats.”
Emei Mountain Alpine Rhododendrons, Sichuan
Seasonal Highlight
Alpine rhododendrons bloom near the Golden Summit and Leidongping, forming one of the mountain’s “Four Great Wonders” alongside sea of clouds, Buddha’s halo, and snow-capped peaks.
Why Visit in May
This is the best time to see the rhododendrons in full glory. Hike along trails at different elevations to admire these vibrant blooms amidst the sacred atmosphere of this Buddhist mountain.
Kunming Jacaranda Blooms, Yunnan
Seasonal Highlight
Early May paints Kunming in dreamy purple as jacaranda trees blossom along Jiaochang Middle Road and the Panlong River, earning it the nickname “Eastern Provence.”
Why Visit in May
Stroll under the purple canopy for stunning photos, visit Green Lake Park and Yunnan Ethnic Village, enjoy Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles, and soak up the romance of the “Spring City.”
Longji (Dragon’s Backbone) Terraces, Guangxi
Seasonal Highlight
In May, the terraces are filled with water, creating a spectacular mirror effect that glimmers under morning mist and sunrise—a true “sculpture of the earth,” especially majestic from viewpoints like Jinkeng Dazhai.
Why Visit in May
Admire the terraced landscapes from Ping’an Village and Jinkeng Dazhai, hike to viewing platforms such as “Nine Dragons and Five Tigers” and “Seven Stars Around the Moon,” and experience Yao and Zhuang ethnic cultures.
Hulunbuir Grasslands, Inner Mongolia
Seasonal Highlight
May sees the grasslands turning green again—vast, endless pastures dotted with white sheep like scattered pearls and galloping horses, all with fewer tourists.
Why Visit in May
Experience horseback riding, wrestling, and staying in a yurt, admire the stunning bends of the Morin River (“the world’s most winding river”), feel the boundless freedom of the prairie, and taste traditional roasted lamb.
Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake), Zhejiang
Seasonal Highlight
May brings clear emerald waters and lush green islands, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and water activities like fishing and boating.
Why Visit in May
Cruise through the Central and Southeast Lake areas to enjoy lake-and-mountain scenery, savor the famous Fish Head Soup, and explore ancient villages like Qinchuan.
Fanjingshan (Mount Fanjing), Guizhou
Seasonal Highlight
In May, the mountain is often shrouded in mist like a fairyland, with dove trees (known as “white pigeon flowers”) in full bloom. It’s also listed among “China’s Top Ten Summer Retreat Mountains” for its pleasant temperatures.
Why Visit in May
Hike to the Red Cloud Golden Summit and Old Golden Summit, marvel at rock formations like the Mushroom Stone, experience the harmony of Buddhist culture and natural beauty, and enjoy locally grown Fanjing tea.
